Designing What's Next in Mobility: Onroad/Offroad and Recreational

Join us for a panel discussion on the transformative impact of today’s mobility and urban technologies, including electrification, advanced self-driving vehicles, HMI, and software-defined vehicles, as well as the challenges of tech-enabled cities.

This session will explore how businesses, communities, and technologies can thrive through human-centric approaches, offering practical guidance on researching, designing, and implementing mobility solutions that balance innovation with real-world human needs.

We’ll also discuss EV range anxiety, the evolving micromobility landscape, urban transportation dynamics, and public perceptions of electric vehicles. Whether you’re a mobility professional, technology leader, or urban planner, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

About the panelists:

Michael Leighton is Director of Industrial Design & CMFG at Polaris Inc. (www.polaris.com). He brings a distinctive perspective to the mobility sector, shaped by his work across eclectic and alternative on- and off-road vehicles, as well as leading innovation initiatives within the industry. Previously, he was VP of Product Design & Development at Duke Cannon Supply Co. from September 2021 to December 2022. He also held several leadership roles at Polaris Industries, including Director of Product Design and Development, PG&A, from April 2019 to September 2021. His career includes substantial experience at 3M, where he served as design officer and held other design management positions from November 2012 to April 2019, along with a tenure at Trek Bicycle as global senior product manager/strategist and senior industrial designer. Michael began his design career with foundational roles at InMusic and Leisure Product Solutions. He earned a BFA in industrial design and business management from the University of Wisconsin–Stout in 2002.


Hans Eckholm is Director of Design at Trek Bicycle (www.trekbikes.com), headquartered in Waterloo, Wisconsin. With a career spanning design leadership in consumer technology, medical devices, and cycling, Hans brings a unique perspective to shaping products that blend innovation, functionality, and aesthetics. At Trek, he leads teams in developing bikes and accessories that serve both professional athletes and everyday riders, building on the company’s reputation for world-class design and performance.

Hans served on the Board of Trustees at the Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design and held design leadership positions at Sony Ericsson Mobile Communications International, Professional Control, and Ethicon. He earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the University of Wisconsin–Stout, where he built the foundation for a career at the intersection of design and technology. Hans is recognized for advancing user-centered design across industries and inspiring the next generation of designers.

Andrew Reynolds is a seasoned industrial designer and design leader, currently driving product innovation at Flux Marine Ltd. (www.fluxmarine.com), the leader in boating electrification. He previously held senior design positions at SharkNinja and contributed to NASA projects while at KBR, Inc. Earlier career roles at NOBULL PROJECT, UPPAbaby, and Motiv Design provided experience in aesthetic development, engineering collaboration, and technical documentation. Andrew earned a bachelor’s degree in Industrial and Product Design from Wentworth Institute of Technology in 2019, combining creative vision with practical engineering expertise to deliver impactful, user-centered products.

This webinar is designed for entrepreneurs, innovators, designers, product developers, and anyone interested in how prioritizing human needs can reshape industries and contribute to a sustainable future. It is also valuable for policymakers and community leaders seeking practical approaches to develop more integrated and holistic urban strategies. Hosted by Gregor Mittersinker, founder and creative director of Loft Design, the session provides an exceptional opportunity to deepen your knowledge and engage with experts driving innovation in this space.

Sign up today to participate in this thought-provoking conversation on the impact of human-centered ecosystems. Don’t miss the chance to gain actionable insights and connect with a community of forward-thinking professionals.

When you sign up, you will be added to Loft's mailing list so that you are notified of future events!